We will not be getting the A45 AMG in the USA or the CLS63 AMG wagon so this drag race will not be taking place in North America. However, we will get the CLA45 AMG sporting the same 360 horsepower M133 four-cylinder motor mated to a seven speed dual clutch transmission with all wheel drive and we already have the standard CLS63 AMG. So, what we have here is a drag race preview between the AMG little brother versus the big brother CLS63 AMG sporting a 5.5 liter bi-turbo M157 V8 everyone should be familiar with. So who wins?

The A45 AMG is lighter, has all wheel drive, and a dual clutch transmission. But, it is down on power by about 158 horses. Both cars have launch control featuring automatic shifting. On paper, the power and torque disparity is one sided.

Naturally due to all wheel drive the A45 gets a slight jump off the line. Once the CLS63 AMG starts to pull it appears to be game over. Somehow, the A45 AMG pulls back. The result is not expected and the new 45 AMG models certainly are quite potent. Yes, the facelifted CLS63 AMG with more power and all wheel drive will smack this car around but if one has a stock 518 horsepower E63 AMG or CLS63 AMG they better get a tune or these entry level cars may catch them with their pants down at a stoplight. Very, very impressive.

Not that much , comparing same engine variants on both classes the weight difference between them is around 30 kg ~ 70 pounds in favour of the A class . They haven't listed the actual weight of the CLA 45 AMG , while we have 1.555 kg for the A45. I suspect somewhere slight under 1.600 kg / 3.500 pounds for the CLA 45 which should go on the rear axle. Well , we just have to wait and see then, but sounds like a great car if it does 12.4 on the 1/4 mile out of the box.

Not that much , comparing same engine variants on both classes the weight difference between them is around 30 kg ~ 70 pounds in favour of the A class . They haven't listed the actual weight of the CLA 45 AMG , while we have 1.555 kg for the A45. I suspect somewhere slight under 1.600 kg / 3.500 pounds for the CLA 45 which should go on the rear axle. Well , we just have to wait and see then, but sounds like a great car if it does 12.4 on the 1/4 mile out of the box.

Mid 12's for that power would be incredible. These are impressive little cars.